Atavistic

usgb/ˌætəˈvɪstɪk/
adjective

Relating to behavior that reminds us of the characteristics of early animals or humans.

Her fear of darkness can be explained as an atavistic trait.
Visual representation of "atavistic" - Relating to behavior that reminds us of the characteristics of early animals or humans.

Often appears as...

  • atavistic fears
  • atavistic behavior

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "atavistic"
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Evolutionary Throwback

Describes behaviors or reactions that seem outdated, coming from our distant past.

Illustration for Evolutionary Throwback
His atavistic response to the threat was to run away.
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Emotional Reaction

Used when someone has a gut reaction that's mostly emotional, not based on modern logic.

Illustration for Emotional Reaction
She had an atavistic fear of the storm, like ancient humans might have.
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Subconscious Drives

Involves instinctual urges or drives we are not consciously aware of.

Illustration for Subconscious Drives
There's an atavistic drive in humans to gather and hoard resources.
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ancestorantiquatedarchaicneanderthalprimitiveregressiveretrogradethrowback
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Visual representation of the word "Atavistic"

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